Ahmad Elrich Joins

Thursday 9 June 2005

Fulham Football Club has today announced the signing of Australian International Midfielder Ahmad Elrich for an undisclosed fee. Having successfully completed a medical, and subject to the necessary work permit, the three year deal will see the player at the Club until the summer of 2008.

Formerly of Korean club Busan I'cons, 24 year old Elrich represented his country at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens where he was arguably Australia's best player.

After making his senior national team debut against Venezuela in Caracas during 2004, Elrich has become a regular fixture in the side playing twelve matches and scoring four goals.

Prior to moving to Korea, Elrich played 120 games and scored 19 goals for Parramatta Power in Australia's National Soccer League, including a player of the match award in the 2004 Grand Final which his side lost in extra time.

Speaking at Fulham's training ground this morning Ahmad Elrich said: 'It has always been my dream to play for my country and to play in the Premiership so I'm absolutely thrilled.

'I spent a week at Fulham during May and they are a great bunch of guys, they really enjoy themselves during training and everyone gets along - that's important. The coaching staff were brilliant, they really make you work hard but I enjoyed it.

'I was really welcomed and the facilities they have are first class so I'm really looking forward to pre-season training with the guys. To play under Chris Coleman will be great also, you can tell he has the respect of all the players and he really wants to do well. He gives 110% and the players want to play for him. Being a former player at the highest level he can give me really good advice about taking this step up.'

Manager Chris Coleman commented:

'I am delighted to welcome Ahmad to Fulham; he trained with us for a week in May and he showed great commitment, enthusiasm and ability - with a blistering pace to rival that of even the fastest players in our squad.

'I have no doubt that he will be an asset to us next season and I am looking forward to working with a highly motivated squad of players that are fully dedicated to the new campaign.'